A man is in hospital with life-threatening injuries after being found alight in a graveyard in Horley.

The man, aged in his 20s and from Crawley, was spotted on fire in the grounds of St Bartholomew's Church in Church Road just after 9pm last night.

A group of people rushed to his aid and managed to put the flames out before police arrived on the scene.

He was taken to hospital by ambulance crews for treatment with injuries described as life-threatening.

A Surrey Police spokeswoman said his next of kin had been informed.

Detectives from East Surrey CID are appealing for information.

Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Antony Preston said: "This was a deeply upsetting sight for those who witnessed it, but I must praise their actions.”

Det Sgt Preston said: "We are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and how the man came to be alight.

"I would urge anyone who has any information on this incident to contact officers as a matter of urgency.”

Local officers from the Reigate and Banstead Safer Neighbourhood Team are assisting detectives with the investigation, carrying out enquiries in the local area.

Both uniformed officers and detectives are currently at the scene in Horley.

Anyone with information is urged to contact officers on 101, quoting reference 45140012062.